1/3 Getting Lower Limits of Quantification in LC-MS/MS assays : Prologue Brian Rappold (Presenter) LabCorp Presenter Bio: Brian Rappold is the Director of Mass Spectrometry for LabCorp. He's participated in MSACL EU since its inception, leading workshops and teaching short courses related to method development and validation strategies.

Authors: Brian Rappold
Laboratory Corporation of America

Understanding mechanisms to achieving better sensitivity in LC-MS/MS assays must start with fundamentals and first principles of the technology. An initial conversation of noise, response functions, ionization techniques and hardware will introduce attendees to the basics of mechanisms used to reduced needed sample volume, increase instrument response and improve assay precision.

Introduction

The desire to achieve lower limits of detection in LC-MS/MS is universal. In the absence of next generation ionization sources provided at little to no cost to all laboratories, the task of reducing detection thresholds falls to the laboratory scientist.

Methods

The methods for this lecture may include frantic hand waving, interpretive dance and excessive facial expressions. It will most certainly include talking and power point slides.

Results

Hopefully, results will provide for lower limits of detection resulting in less sample utilized and more robust assays. Worst case, a few laughs and a refresher on LC-MS/MS fundamentals shall be had.

Conclusions & Discussion

The most important conclusions shall be drawn by the participants after returning to their laboratory and performing some of the described experiments. Discussion should begin in the lectures, hopefully continuing through the evening and well into the next day. Email correspondence is encouraged post-conference and phone calls would be welcome if made during regular business hours.

I'd like to recognize the organizers of the conference, particularly the Herold family, and the scientific committee of MSACL EU. Additionally, the clinicians, laboratorians, vendors and scientists using LC-MS/MS to make a positive difference in the quality of diagnostic testing deserve a round of applause. I'd also like to thank my wife for her many years of support.